For almost a century, Neumann has set the benchmark for studio performance; however, the prohibitive cost of the brand’s iconic microphones has kept them out of reach for many. That’s where the Neumann TLM 102 condenser microphone comes in. As the most affordable Neumann condenser microphone ever, the TLM 102 showcases the famed manufacturer’s meticulous German engineering in a compact package designed with the home studio and budget-conscious consumers in mind.

Coming in at a fraction of the price of the iconic Neumann U 87, this small yet elegant condenser mic is capable of holding its own alongside its formidable forebears. It boasts a newly designed large-diaphragm capsule that delivers superb sound definition in a variety of applications. Together with Neumann’s next-gen low-noise circuitry and a host of intelligent design features, the TLM 102 is perfect for capturing silky vocals, shimmering guitars, and thundering drums in stunning detail.

Small Package, Large Diaphragm

The Neumann TLM 102 may be small, but it boasts a versatile new large-diaphragm cardioid capsule designed to preserve the authentic character of any voice or instrument. With a frequency range of 20 Hz to 20 kHz, the TLM 102 captures transients with speed and precision while maintaining a smooth, natural tone. Its largely linear response produces recordings free of coloration across the audible spectrum. A slight boost above 6 kHz adds presence and “air” to vocals and speech, allowing them to cut through mixes with sparkling clarity. Thanks to the well-controlled proximity effect of the TLM 102’s large-diaphragm capsule, it also exhibits powerful bottom end, bringing a beautifully balanced sound to your recordings.

TLM Technology—High Clarity, High SPL

In Neumann nomenclature, TLM stands for “transformerless microphone.” It’s an innovative new approach to condenser microphones that does away with conventional output transformers in favor of an electronic circuit that creates a barrier against RF interference and suppresses electrical noise. With a self-noise level of only 12dB-A, the TLM 102 exhibits much less ambient noise than even a very quiet room. Neumann’s TLM technology also allows the 102 to handle extreme SPLs without distortion. Capable of capturing sound pressure levels up to an impressive 144dB, this small but mighty condenser is ideal for recording loud sound sources like horns, speaker cabinets and snare drums.

Integrated Pop Screen and Suspension Reduce Noise

While the TLM 102 is notable for its low self-noise, Neumann engineers have also taken several innovative steps to minimize noise caused by external movements or vibrations. An integrated pop screen protects the TLM 102’s capsule from plosives and breath noise during vocal recordings. The capsule itself is elastically suspended to prevent structure-borne vibration from translating into unwanted sound. These features, combined with the TLM 102's compact, ergonomic design, make it exceptionally easy to position and help capture a clean, focused signal. Should you want to pair it with a shockmount, the Neumann EA 4 is designed to fit the TLM 102 and features an open front to accommodate its smaller size.

A Compact Utility Player in the Home Studio

Designed to meet the wide-ranging demands of the home studio, the TLM 102 is a compact yet capable workhorse. Measuring just over 2 inches in diameter, it’s highly portable and fits into even the tightest spaces. Its small size makes it unobtrusive as a drum mic and easy to place in front of guitar cabinets. And with its uniform cardioid pattern and generous 132dB dynamic range, the TLM is both versatile and easy to use, delivering consistent results and uncolored sound when recording everything from hushed vocals to punchy percussion to screaming saxophone. It requires standard 48V phantom power and provides a balanced, low-impedance output for compatibility with most preamps and interfaces.

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